Direct Care Professional

NFI Vermont, Inc.; Waterbury (CT); On-site; USD 20,664,000 - 30,307,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Vacation days

Health insurance

Job summary

NAFI Connecticut, Inc. operates residential group homes across CT, NY, and RI, supporting adults, children, and families to improve communication, independence, and community integration. We are seeking Direct Care Staff to assist residents with daily living, meals, safety, and personal care in a 24/7 setting.

Role emphasizes growth, coaching on social skills, and adherence to behavior support plans. Applicants should have a High School diploma or GED and possess valid driver's license; CNA/PCA

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Experience with individuals with developmental disabilities, intellectual disabilities, or behavioral health populations preferred.
• Prior experience in group homes, hospitals, human services or behavioral health settings.
• CNA or PCA experience preferred but not required.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage with clients, families, and team members.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries while building trust with clients.
• Good organizational and time management to handle documentation and daily duties.
• CPR/First Aid or equivalent certifications preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support client personal growth and daily living activities.
• Provide counseling on independence, coping, and pro-social behaviors.
• Coach on interpersonal skills and conflict resolution while maintaining boundaries.
• Lead by example with professionalism and positivity in community and organization.
• Assist clients with meals and safe transportation as needed.
• Document client interactions and behavioral observations after each shift.
• Participate in trainings, meetings, and maintain up-to-date certifications.

Skills

Strong communication

Interpersonal skills

Documentation

Crisis prevention

Time management

Flexibility

Professional boundaries

Basic computer skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

CPR/First Aid

Documentation software

Job description

NAFI Connecticut provides programs, consultation, and support services in a variety of settings across Connecticut, New York and Rhode Island. We work with adults, children, and families to increase communication and social skills, improve relationships, increase circles of support, and provide therapeutic services based on best-practice research. We believe that people can change, and we work to empower each individual in their own care.

We are currently seeking Direct Care Staff for our residential group home. Highly trained staff are available 24/7 to assist residents with household management, activities of daily living, recreation, leisure planning, employment opportunities, and safety skills. The program prides itself on promoting personal growth, maximizing each individual's level of independence, and fostering community integration.

Responsibilities Include:

• Support Personal Growth: Assess client skills and provide counseling on independent living, coping strategies, and pro-social behaviors using behavior support plans
• Guide and Inspire: Offer coaching on interpersonal skills, conflict resolution, and managing peer pressure, while maintaining appropriate boundaries
• Be a Role Model: Lead by example, demonstrate professionalism and positivity both in the community and within the organization
• Provide Essential Care: Assist clients with daily living activities, prepare meals, and provide safe transportation as needed
• Document Progress: Record client interactions and behavioral observations after each shift to ensure quality care
• Stay Prepared: Participate in training sessions, team meetings, and maintain up-to-date certifications
• Handle Challenges Confidently: Use crisis prevention, de-escalation techniques, and physical management when necessary and permitted

Our Exceptional Benefits:

• Generous paid time off
• 3-6 weeks’ vacation, 7 sick days and 11 paid holidays each year

Employee Health and Wellness:

• Comprehensive and affordable medical, dental, prescription and vision coverage (Reimbursements for fitness, weight loss, holistic health programs)
• No cost employee assistance program
• Voluntary employee focused wellness programs

Retirement and financial Planning:

• Company matching 403b and no cost retirement consulting
• Company paid for life Insurance and long-term disability
• Public service loan forgiveness
• Insurance including accident, hospital indemnity, supplemental Life
• Pet Insurance
• Tuition reimbursement: Includes licensure fees, professional memberships

…and much more!

Desired Qualifications/Skills:

• High School Diploma or GED (required)
• Valid Driver's License (required)
• Experience working with individuals with Developmental Disabilities (DD), Intellectual Disabilities, or Behavioral Health populations
• Prior experience in group homes, hospitals, human services, or behavioral health settings
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Personal Care Assistant (PCA) experience (preferred but not required)
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with clients, families, and team members
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries while building trust and rapport with clients
• Organizational and time management skills to handle documentation and daily responsibilities effectively
• Flexibility and adaptability to meet the unique needs of each client
• Basic computer skills for completing documentation and reports
• CPR, First Aid, or other relevant certifications (preferred)

Inclusivity and Non-Discrimination Statement:

NAFI Connecticut, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, veteran status, disability, or any other federal, state or local protected class. Inclusivity and removing barriers are important to us. We are passionate about instilling a sense of belonging, celebrating diverse perspectives, and offering equal opportunities for employees to contribute and grow. We encourage members of underrepresented or marginalized communities and all those that share in these beliefs to apply.

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Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.